1. How does the state of Connecticut address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families?

In Connecticut, there are several initiatives and programs in place to help address the issue of high internet costs for low-income families:

1. Lifeline Program: Connecticut participates in the federal Lifeline program, which provides a monthly discount on phone and internet service for eligible low-income households. The program offers a $9.25 per month credit towards qualifying internet plans.

2. Internet Essentials Program: This program, offered by Comcast, provides low-cost internet service for families with at least one child eligible for the National School Lunch Program or receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.

3. Low-Income Broadband Access Plan: The state of Connecticut has launched a plan to provide affordable high-speed internet access to low-income households through partnerships with local broadband providers.

4. Digital Equity Initiative: This initiative, led by the state’s Department of Economic and Community Development (DECD), works to increase internet access and digital literacy in underserved communities through partnerships with community organizations and businesses.

5. Non-profit assistance: There are several non-profit organizations in Connecticut that provide discounted or free internet services to low-income families, such as EveryoneOn and Human-I-T.

6. Municipal broadband networks: Some cities in Connecticut have implemented their own municipal broadband networks, providing affordable high-speed internet options for residents.

Additionally, efforts are being made at the federal level to address this issue through legislation and funding support.

2. What government programs are available in Connecticut to ensure affordable internet access for underserved communities?

1. Connecticut Lifeline Program
The Connecticut Lifeline Program is a federal assistance program that provides discounted phone and internet services to low-income households. Eligible households can receive a $9.25 monthly discount on their phone or internet bill.

2. Connecticut Mobile Network Operators’ Outreach Program
This program, also known as “Connecticut’s Cell Phone Assistance Program,” provides free or reduced-cost cell phone service to eligible low-income individuals and families in the state.

3. EveryoneOn
EveryoneOn is a non-profit organization that works with local partners to provide affordable internet access and digital literacy training to underserved communities across the country, including in Connecticut.

4. Internet Essentials from Comcast
Comcast’s Internet Essentials program offers low-cost internet service and computer equipment to eligible families with at least one child receiving free or reduced school lunches through the National School Lunch Program.

5. GoNetSpeed Low-Income Internet Program
GoNetSpeed offers affordable internet service options for low-income households in select areas of Connecticut, with plans starting as low as $24.95 per month.

6. Community Technology Centers
Community Technology Centers (CTCs) provide public access to computers and the internet, as well as digital literacy training and other resources for underserved communities in Connecticut.

7. Public Library Programs
Many public libraries in Connecticut offer free access to computers and the internet for community members, as well as digital literacy classes and workshops.

8. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) Program
The EBB is a temporary program introduced by the FCC that provides discounts on broadband services and devices for eligible low-income households during the COVID-19 pandemic.

3. In what ways is the government of Connecticut working to bridge the digital divide and promote internet affordability for all residents?

1. Establishing a state broadband office: Connecticut has created a dedicated state broadband office, the Office of Consumer Counsel’s Office of Broadband Policy, to oversee and promote broadband infrastructure development and adoption.

2. Funding for broadband expansion: The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development provides grants and loans to support expansion of broadband access in underserved areas. These funds help internet service providers (ISPs) build out infrastructure in rural and low-income communities.

3. Encouraging public-private partnerships: The state encourages public-private partnerships to increase broadband access, including partnerships with local municipalities and community organizations.

4. Promoting affordable plans: The Office of Consumer Counsel has negotiated agreements with ISPs to offer discounted internet plans for low-income households in the state.

5. Educating residents on available resources: The state government works to educate residents on available resources for obtaining affordable internet access, such as federal Lifeline Program subsidies and low-cost internet options through nonprofit organizations.

6. Mapping the digital divide: The state has mapped its broadband coverage data to identify areas that lack sufficient internet access, which helps inform where funding and resources should be directed.

7. Addressing regulatory barriers: In 2019, the governor signed into law a bill that removed some regulatory barriers for municipalities looking to establish their own municipal broadband networks.

8. Expanding public Wi-Fi access: Several cities in Connecticut have installed outdoor public Wi-Fi hotspots in public spaces such as parks and libraries to provide free internet access to residents.

9. Supporting digital literacy programs: The Connecticut Digital Equity Action Plan addresses digital literacy by providing training programs for residents on how to effectively use technology and navigate online services.

10. Collaboration with schools and libraries: The State Library Board provides grants to schools and libraries for devices, hotspots, subscriptions, or other expenses related to increase connectivity among students during remote learning.

4. What incentives or initiatives has Connecticut implemented to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans?

Connecticut has implemented several initiatives and programs to encourage ISPs to offer more affordable internet plans. These include:

1. Broadband Expansion Grant Program: The state offers grants to eligible ISPs to expand broadband access in underserved and unserved areas of the state. This encourages ISPs to invest in infrastructure and offer affordable plans in these areas.

2. Office of Consumer Counsel (OCC): OCC monitors the rates, terms, and conditions of utility services including internet service. They work with ISPs to ensure that consumers are getting fair prices for their services.

3. “Full Cost” Reimbursement Legislation: Connecticut has passed legislation that requires all telecommunications companies, including ISPs, to receive “full cost” reimbursement for providing basic local exchange service. This provides incentive for ISPs to keep costs low for consumers.

4. State Broadband Map: The state maintains a map that shows the availability and speed of broadband access throughout the state. This allows residents to compare prices and speeds from different providers, creating more competition among ISPs and potentially leading to more affordable plans.

5. Digital Equity Coalition: The state has formed a coalition of government agencies, non-profits, businesses, and community members working together to close the digital divide in Connecticut through various programs and initiatives like digital literacy training for individuals and families.

6. Program for Low-Income Families: Low-income families can receive discounted or even free broadband internet service through the Lifeline Assistance Program or other programs offered by individual ISPs.

7. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has encouraged public-private partnerships with local governments, community organizations, economic development agencies, and the private sector to bring affordable broadband access to underserved communities.

8. Tax Credits: Connecticut offers tax credits to companies investing in broadband infrastructure in unserved or underserved areas, promoting expansion of high-speed networks and potentially leading to more affordable plans for residents in those areas.

9. Net Neutrality Legislation: In 2018, Connecticut passed a bill to protect net neutrality by requiring internet service providers that do business with the state to adhere to net neutrality principles. This ensures equal and affordable access to all websites for consumers.

10. Municipal Broadband: Several cities and towns in Connecticut have established their own municipal broadband networks, offering low-cost, high-speed internet services to residents and businesses. This competition from municipal providers can push private ISPs to offer more affordable plans in those areas.

5. Is there a specific agency or department in Connecticut responsible for overseeing internet affordability programs?

The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) is responsible for overseeing and regulating the state’s public utilities, including telecommunications providers. However, there is no specific agency or department dedicated solely to overseeing internet affordability programs in the state.

6. How does Connecticut measure and track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents?

Connecticut measures and tracks progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access through several initiatives and programs:

1. The Connecticut Broadband Internet Coordinating Council (CTBICC): The CTBICC is a state-level council thatcoordinates efforts to expand broadband internet access in the state. It monitors progress, sets goals and advises on policies, legislation, funding sources, and other actions necessary to promote universal high-speed broadband availability.

2. Connecticut Broadband Policy and Development Authority (BDPA): This agency was created by the state legislature to develop strategies for broadband deployment in unserved or underserved areas of the state. The BDPA also tracks progress towards meeting state-wide goals for affordable internet access through its annual report.

3. Public Utility Regulatory Authority (PURA): PURA regulates the telecommunications industry in Connecticut and has a Consumer Affairs Unit that tracks consumer complaints about accessibility and affordability of internet services.

4. Statewide Broadband Map: In 2012, Connecticut launched a statewide broadband mapping initiative to identify gaps in coverage and assess broadband speeds across the state. This map is regularly updated to monitor progress towards closing the digital divide.

5. Digital Equity Atlas: This online tool developed by the Office of Consumer Counsel allows users to search for areas with limited broadband infrastructure, as well as information on available providers and pricing.

6. State Funding Programs: The state provides funding for various programs aimed at increasing internet access and affordability for residents, such as the Small Town Economic Assistance Program and the Connect-Home Initiative.

7. Annual Reports: Various government agencies release annual reports on access to high-speed internet in Connecticut, including the Department of Economic & Community Development’s Community Broadband program report, which includes data on service availability and affordability in each town.

8. Surveys: The state conducts surveys to gather information from residents about their use of technology and internet services, including barriers they face to accessing affordable high-speed internet.

Overall, Connecticut uses a combination of data collection, policy initiatives, and funding programs to track progress towards achieving widespread, affordable internet access for its residents.

7. Are there any partnerships between government and private companies in Connecticut aimed at lowering the cost of internet service?

Yes, there are several partnerships between government and private companies in Connecticut aimed at lowering the cost of internet service. Some examples include:

1. Net Neutrality Partnership Program: The state government has formed a partnership with private internet service providers to protect net neutrality and ensure that residents have access to affordable, high-speed internet.

2. Zero-Rate Internet Program: The state government has partnered with certain telecommunications companies to offer low-cost or free internet service to low-income families.

3. Broadband Expansion Partnership: The Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development has collaborated with private companies to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas, providing more affordable and reliable internet options for residents.

4. Technology Improvement Fund: This fund, created by the state government, provides grants to municipalities for technology infrastructure improvement projects, including increasing access to affordable high-speed internet.

5. Education Superhighway Partnership: In collaboration with the non-profit organization Education Superhighway, the state government is working towards connecting all public schools in Connecticut to high-speed broadband at an affordable cost.

6. Digital Divide Task Force: This task force, led by both public and private sector representatives, works towards promoting digital equality and reducing the cost barriers faced by low-income and rural communities when accessing high-speed internet.

7. Municipal Broadband Partnerships: Some cities in Connecticut, such as New Haven and Meriden, have established partnerships between their municipal governments and private companies to provide affordable broadband services for residents.

These are just a few examples of partnerships between government and private companies in Connecticut aimed at lowering the cost of internet service. Other initiatives may exist on a local or regional level as well.

8. Does Connecticut provide subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs?

Yes, there are several programs and initiatives in Connecticut that aim to provide subsidies or discounts for low-income households struggling with high internet costs.

1. Connecticut’s Lifeline Program: This program is funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and provides a discount on monthly telephone and internet service for eligible low-income individuals and households. As of December 2020, the Lifeline discount is $9.25 per month.

2. Eversource Energy Discount Rate: This program offers a discounted rate for electricity services to low-income households in Connecticut. Eligible households can receive a discounted rate on their electric bill, which may help in freeing up resources to pay for internet services.

3. Comcast Internet Essentials: This program offers high-speed internet at an affordable price to qualified low-income families in Connecticut. The monthly cost for this service is $9.95, and eligible families can also purchase a computer for $149.99.

4. Charter Spectrum Internet Assist: This program offers high-speed internet at an affordable price to qualified low-income seniors (ages 65+) and families with students receiving free or reduced-price school lunches in certain areas of Connecticut. The monthly cost for this service is $14.99.

5. EveryoneOn: This national non-profit organization connects low-income families with affordable internet service options in their area through partnerships with various internet service providers.

Additionally, some local community organizations and non-profits offer assistance programs that provide free or discounted internet services to eligible households in need. It is recommended to check with your local community organizations for any available programs or resources in your area.

9. Are there any state-level regulations or policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services in Connecticut?

At the state level, Connecticut does not currently have any specific regulations or policies in place to prevent ISPs from charging exorbitant prices for internet services. However, there are several measures in place that aim to promote competition and protect consumers from anti-competitive practices.

1) State laws prohibit monopolies or unfair competition: Connecticut has legislation in place prohibiting monopolies or other anti-competitive practices that could lead to higher prices for internet services.

2) Net neutrality laws: In 2018, Connecticut passed a law enforcing net neutrality principles, which requires that all internet traffic be treated equally without discrimination or preference based on content or source. This could help prevent ISPs from charging excessive fees for certain types of online content.

3) Partnership with federal government: The state also participates in partnerships with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), including joint investigations of consumer complaints against ISPs.

4) Authority of Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA): The PURA is responsible for regulating utility services in the state, including telecommunications. Although it does not set specific pricing regulations for ISPs, it has the authority to investigate and address consumer complaints related to unfair pricing practices.

Overall, while there is no direct regulation preventing ISPs from charging high prices for internet services in Connecticut, these measures aim to promote fair competition and protect consumers from exorbitant prices.

10. Can students from low-income families in Connecticut access discounted or free high-speed internet through government programs?

Yes, there are several government programs in Connecticut that offer discounted or free high-speed internet for low-income families. These programs include:

1. Lifeline Assistance Program: This federal program provides a discount on phone or internet service for eligible low-income households.

2. Connecticut Lifeline Credit: This state-funded program offers a credit towards phone and internet bills for eligible low-income households.

3. EveryoneOn: This national nonprofit organization works with local internet service providers to offer discounted or free internet services to low-income households.

4. Comcast Internet Essentials: This program provides low-cost home internet to eligible households in the Comcast service area.

5. AT&T Access Program: This program offers discounted home internet services to eligible low-income households in the AT&T service area.

In order to be eligible for these programs, students must meet certain income requirements and may need to provide documentation such as proof of income or enrollment in another government assistance program (such as Medicaid or SNAP). Families can contact their preferred internet service provider or visit the program’s website for more information on eligibility and how to apply.

11. How does Connecticut’s approach to promoting internet affordability differ from that of other states?

Connecticut’s approach to promoting internet affordability differs from that of other states in several ways:

1. Public-Private Partnership: Connecticut has established a public-private partnership to expand broadband access and affordability in the state. This partnership brings together government agencies, internet service providers (ISPs), and community organizations to work collaboratively on initiatives to make high-speed internet more accessible and affordable for all residents.

2. Legislative Action: In 2020, Connecticut passed a law that sets a minimum standard for broadband speeds and requires ISPs to provide affordable plans for low-income households. This legislation ensures that every household in the state has access to quality internet service at an affordable price.

3. Digital Equity Fund: Connecticut has also established a Digital Equity Fund with an initial investment of $400,000 to support projects that improve digital literacy, increase broadband adoption, and provide affordable internet services for low-income residents.

4. Focus on Low-Income Residents: Unlike some other states that primarily focus on expanding rural broadband access, Connecticut’s initiatives target low-income households in both urban and rural areas. This ensures that those who need affordable internet services the most are not left behind.

5. Emphasis on Education: Connecticut recognizes the importance of having reliable high-speed internet for education and has implemented programs such as CT Learns & connectED which provides students with free or heavily discounted home broadband service.

6. Consultation with Community Organizations: The state works closely with community organizations that serve marginalized populations to understand their specific needs and address them through targeted initiatives.

Overall, Connecticut’s approach focuses not only on expanding broadband infrastructure but also on addressing the barriers faced by low-income households in accessing affordable high-speed internet services.

12. Has the government ofConnecticut launched any innovative initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents?

Yes, the government of Connecticut has launched several initiatives to make high-speed broadband more affordable and accessible for all residents. They include:

1) The Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act: This program provides tax credits to businesses that donate to organizations working on digital literacy and broadband adoption efforts in low-income and underserved communities.

2) The CT Gig Project: This initiative aims to expand high-speed internet access to over 200,000 households in rural areas of Connecticut through a public-private partnership between the state government, private companies, and local municipalities.

3) Broadband Grant Program: The state offers grants to municipalities, nonprofits, and community-based organizations to support broadband infrastructure development projects in underserved communities.

4) Digital Equity Fund: Connecticut has partnered with nonprofit organizations to create a fund that provides low-income families with affordable internet access and devices.

5) Public-Private Partnerships: The state has formed partnerships with private companies like Comcast and Frontier Communications to expand their high-speed internet services into underserved areas.

6) Connected Communities Initiative: This program aims to increase broadband adoption rates by partnering with local stakeholders, including schools, libraries, and community centers, to provide training, resources, and support for digital literacy skills.

7) Municipal Broadband Action Plan: In 2020, the state created an action plan that outlines strategies for municipal-owned broadband networks in underserved areas.

Overall, these initiatives aim to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all residents have access to affordable high-speed broadband services.

13. Do rural areas in Connecticut have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas do?

Rural areas in Connecticut may not have equal access to affordable internet services as urban areas do. While some rural areas may have access to broadband internet through traditional providers such as cable or DSL, others may only have access to slower, more expensive options such as satellite or fixed wireless. The infrastructure for high-speed internet is often less developed in rural areas, leading to less competition and higher prices for consumers. Additionally, the cost of providing internet services in sparsely populated rural areas can be higher for providers, making it difficult to offer more affordable plans. However, efforts are being made to improve broadband availability and affordability in rural areas through initiatives such as the Connecticut State Broadband Plan and grants for broadband expansion projects.

14. What role do community organizations play in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Connecticut?

Community organizations can play a vital role in advocating for more affordable internet options within the state of Connecticut by:

1. Raising awareness: Community organizations can educate their members and the general public about the importance of affordable internet access and its impact on individuals, families, and communities.

2. Building partnerships: Community organizations have strong connections with local businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders. They can use these relationships to build partnerships that advocate for more affordable internet options.

3. Conducting research: Community organizations can conduct research on the current state of affordable internet options in Connecticut, gather data, and present it to policymakers to demonstrate the need for improvement.

4. Engaging with policymakers: Community organizations can engage with policymakers at all levels of government to advocate for policies and legislation that promote more affordable internet options.

5. Mobilizing grassroots efforts: As trusted leaders in their communities, community organizations have the power to mobilize grassroots efforts in support of more affordable internet options. This can include organizing protests or letter-writing campaigns, hosting forums or town halls, and using social media to raise awareness.

6. Providing resources and support: Community organizations can provide resources and support to individuals who are struggling with high internet costs by connecting them with financial assistance programs or providing information on low-cost alternatives.

7. Addressing digital literacy: Many individuals may not be aware of how to find or apply for affordable internet options. Community organizations can address this issue by providing digital literacy training and resources to help people navigate the system more effectively.

8. Monitoring progress: Community organizations can monitor progress made towards increasing access to affordable internet options within the state and hold policymakers accountable for their promises.

Overall, community organizations have a strong presence in their respective communities which gives them a unique perspective on the needs of their residents. By leveraging this position, they can effectively advocate for more accessible and affordable internet options in Connecticut.

15. Are there any tax credits or incentives available to ISPs in exchange for offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services in Connecticut?

Yes, the State of Connecticut does offer tax credits and incentives for ISPs that provide high-speed internet services to underserved or economically disadvantaged areas. These credits may include a sales and use tax exemption for certain equipment purchases, as well as corporate income tax credits for creating new jobs and investing in capital improvements.

Additionally, the Federal Communications Commission’s Connect America Fund provides funding to ISPs to deploy broadband internet service in rural areas. This funding can offset the costs associated with offering lower-cost, high-speed internet services.

Individual towns may also offer tax abatements or other incentives to ISPs that bring high-speed internet service to their communities. It is recommended to contact local town officials for more information on any potential incentives available in specific towns.

16. How transparent is the government of Connecticut’s decision-making process when it comes to allocating funds towards improving internet affordability?

As a language model AI, I don’t have first-hand knowledge but here’s what I found.

The government of Connecticut has taken several steps to increase transparency in decision-making processes regarding the allocation of funds towards improving internet affordability.

1. Public Hearings and Meetings: The government regularly holds public hearings and meetings where discussions are held on various issues related to improving internet affordability. These meetings are open to the public, and interested citizens can participate and voice their opinions.

2. Stakeholder Involvement: The state government involves stakeholders, including telecommunications companies, local governments, consumer interest groups, and community representatives, in decision-making processes related to broadband development. This ensures that the decisions made are informed by diverse perspectives.

3. Transparency Dashboard: Connecticut has launched a Transparency Dashboard that provides citizens with real-time information on how funds are allocated towards various initiatives such as broadband expansion. This dashboard also includes data on broadband speeds and coverage areas.

4. Broadband Strategy Plan: The state has developed a comprehensive broadband strategy plan that outlines its goals, objectives, and strategies for expanding high-speed internet access across the state. This plan is publicly available and provides details on how funds will be allocated towards achieving these goals.

5. Open Data Portal: Connecticut’s open data portal provides citizens with easy access to datasets related to broadband availability and speed across the state. This allows for greater transparency in understanding how funds are being utilized for improving internet affordability.

6. Independent Reviews: The state government conducts independent reviews of its broadband initiatives regularly to assess their effectiveness and impact on improving internet affordability. These reviews are made publicly available, providing transparency on the progress made towards achieving their goals.

Overall, the government of Connecticut is committed to increasing transparency in decision-making processes related to allocating funds for improving internet affordability. Through various initiatives and measures, citizens have access to timely information about how their tax dollars are being used towards this important issue.

17. What strategies has Connecticut employed to promote digital equity and ensure that all residents have access to affordable internet?

Connecticut has employed the following strategies to promote digital equity and ensure access to affordable internet:

1. Statewide Broadband Strategy: In 2018, Connecticut launched a statewide broadband strategy to guide efforts to expand high-speed internet access and adoption. This strategy includes goals such as increasing broadband speeds and reducing the cost of service.

2. Public-Private Partnerships: The state has formed partnerships with private companies to expand broadband infrastructure in underserved areas. This includes agreements with companies like Frontier Communications, Charter Communications, and Altice USA.

3. Investment in Broadband Infrastructure: Connecticut has also made significant investments in broadband infrastructure through programs such as the Connecticut Telecommunications Infrastructure Fund (CTIF) and the Small Town Economic Assistance Program (STEAP).

4. Digital Equity Grant Program: The state has set up a grant program that supports initiatives focused on increasing digital literacy, providing computer equipment and training for low-income residents, and promoting affordable internet options.

5. School Technology Grants: The state provides grants to schools for technology resources, including internet access, to enhance learning opportunities for students in underserved communities.

6. Low-Income Internet Access Program: The Connecticut State Library administers a program that offers discounted internet services to low-income families through Claro Net Essentials.

7. Digital Divide Council: The Governor’s Council on Women and Girls includes a subcommittee focused on addressing issues related to the digital divide in vulnerable populations and promoting greater access to technology resources for all.

8. Mobile Hotspot Lending Programs: Several libraries across the state offer mobile hotspot lending programs where residents can check out hotspots for free or at a reduced rate.

9. Digital Literacy Training: Libraries and community organizations offer digital literacy training programs to help residents develop skills needed to navigate the digital world effectively.

10 years of Action Plan for Digital Inclusion & Technology Literacy Education: In 2011, Connecticut developed an action plan with specific strategies to promote digital equity and technology literacy education over a 10-year period. This plan includes measures like promoting affordable internet options, providing training for individuals and organizations, and increasing access to technology in underserved communities.

18. Does the state government in Connecticut work closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability?

Yes, the state government in Connecticut works closely with local municipalities to implement targeted programs for improving internet affordability. Some initiatives include:

1. The Connecticut Broadband Internet Co-Op: This program was launched by the Office of Consumer Counsel in partnership with the State Department of Public Utility Control and Capital Region Council of Governments (CRCOG). It aims to increase broadband access and affordability by leveraging the collective purchasing power of municipalities to negotiate lower broadband prices from service providers.

2. Digital Equity Council: Established by Governor Ned Lamont in January 2019, this council includes representatives from various state and local agencies as well as community organizations, and is tasked with developing strategies to bridge the digital divide in Connecticut.

3. Municipal Broadband Grant Program: Through this program, established by House Bill 6525, the state provides grants to municipalities for feasibility studies and plans related to creating or expanding municipal broadband infrastructure.

4. Working Cities Challenge: This initiative, led by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, provides grant funding to support collaborative efforts among cross-sector teams in small- and mid-sized cities across Connecticut to improve economic outcomes for low-income residents. Projects often include initiatives focused on increasing affordable internet access.

5. Partnership for Strong Communities: This nonprofit organization advocates for affordable housing policies and has identified a lack of affordable internet access as a major barrier to economic stability for low-income households. They work closely with state policymakers and community partners to address this issue.

Overall, there is a strong collaboration between the state government and local municipalities in Connecticut to address internet affordability challenges and provide access to all residents.

19. How does the state ofConnecticut compare to neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability?

Compared to its neighboring states, Connecticut has been fairly successful in promoting and achieving reasonable internet affordability. According to a 2020 report by BroadbandNow, Connecticut ranks 23rd in the nation for overall internet access and affordability. This puts it ahead of all its neighboring states except for Massachusetts, which ranks at 19th place.

However, when comparing specific factors related to internet affordability, Connecticut fares quite well against its neighbors. For example, Connecticut’s average internet price is lower than New York’s and Rhode Island’s, but higher than Massachusetts’ and Vermont’s. Furthermore, Connecticut has a relatively high percentage (74%) of households with access to broadband internet compared to other New England states like Vermont (62%) and Maine (53%).

Connecticut also has several state initiatives in place that aim to promote internet affordability for underserved communities. These include the Lifeline Program, which offers discounted phone and internet services for low-income households, and the ConnectHome Initiative which aims to provide affordable broadband access for residents living in public housing.

In conclusion, while there is still room for improvement, Connecticut compares favorably with its neighboring states in terms of promoting and achieving widespread internet affordability.

20. Are there long-term plans in place in Connecticut to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents?

Yes, there are several ongoing initiatives and long-term plans in place in Connecticut to address the issue of rising internet costs and make high-speed internet accessible for all residents.

1) The state has established a Broadband Office within the Department of Consumer Protection to oversee and coordinate efforts related to expanding internet access and reducing costs.

2) In 2020, Connecticut passed a law that prohibits broadband providers from charging customers excessive, unreasonable, or discriminatory rates for internet service.

3) The state is investing in various broadband infrastructure projects through partnerships with private companies, municipal utilities, and federal programs such as the FCC’s Connect America Fund.

4) The state is working on developing a statewide plan for broadband connectivity that will outline strategies to increase access to affordable high-speed internet across Connecticut.

5) Connecticut also has various programs in place to provide subsidies and discounts for low-income households, schools, libraries, and community centers to help reduce the cost of broadband services.

6) The state is actively pursuing public-private partnerships towards expanding coverage into underserved areas and improving competition among internet providers.

Overall, these efforts aim to close the digital divide and ensure that all residents have access to affordable high-speed internet.